Three Things we learnt from Arsenal’s 5-0 dispatch of Brighton and Hove Albion

An exciting Friday evening at The Emirates saw Arsenal Women bounce back in style with a commanding 5-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. Goals from Beth Mead, Caitlin Foord, Frida Maanum, Lina Hurtig and Alessia Russo secured a much-needed three points for the Gunners, moving them up to fourth in the Women’s Super League. Here are three things we learnt from the dominant display.

Solid Squad Depth and Tactical Flexibility

Arsenal’s strength and depth was on full display, with early substitutions such as Laia Codina and Stina Blackstenius coming on with fresh legs, making immediate impacts. Lina Hurtig’s bullet header, just four minutes after coming on, emphasised the value of Arsenal’s well-rounded squad, who are all ready to contribute when called upon.

These substitutions also highlighted the tactical flexibility that is crucial in tough competitions. After a first half full of action, Alessia Russo dropped to the number 10 role where she provided vital link-up play, showing her versatility up top.

This adaptability, combined with Arsenal’s strong bench gives Interim Manager Renee Slegers multiple options and enables her to keep opposition defences guessing. 

The Gunners Can Bounce Back

This match proved that Arsenal are more than capable of overcoming setbacks, both collectively and as individuals.

After the departure of Jonas Eidevall, some disappointing results and the frustration of failing to convert chances against Manchester United, the team showed resilience, responding with a clinical performance.

On a personal level, Beth Mead marked her return to the starting lineup with a classically stunning goal, a testament to her experience in the league. Similarly, Lina Hurtig’s passionate goal celebration underlined her year-long journey back to form. The team’s spirit and determination to turn hardships and obstacles into opportunities were palpable.

Ruthless Finishing When It Matters

If there were concerns about Arsenal’s attacking efficiency, they were put to rest on Friday night. The Gunners capitalised on Brighton’s defensive shortcomings, scoring three first-half goals and never letting up.

Ruthlessness in front of goal will be crucial as Arsenal prepare for a tough European schedule, starting with a transitional Juventus side, as well as the highly anticipated North London derby on the next WSL match day.

Renee Slegers has been vocal about needing clinical precision in high-stakes matches and how much of a priority this has been in recent training. The performance against Brighton was a promising sign, with five different goal-scorers on the sheet.

With momentum building, Arsenal are poised to carry this form into the upcoming tests, with the team and its supporters hoping Friday’s victory marks the beginning of a successful run. 

Isobel Gilligan

Directly in front of me, same pose, for a penalty - two games in a row ? ?Shot for @GoonerFanzine pic.twitter.com/ppsUE3ZBhj

— Suzy (@Boodlepim) November 9, 2024